Polka-dotted Peplum: McCall’s 6896

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I reorganized my stash the other day, and realized that I had a decent chunk of this navy polka dot knit fabric leftover from making a dress in the fall. I wanted to make something, but not go fabric shopping (shocking, I know), so next I searched through my patterns. Ultimately, I decided to make a polka-dotted peplum top with McCall’s 6896.

I typically have good fitting luck with McCall’s patterns, and this was no exception. Here I made a straight size 8. I would give it an 8/10 on fit. If I were to make this again, I would increase the seam allowance on the center front seam, so that the princess seams are closer together. As they are now, they’re a little wide for my body. They’re also wide on the model on the front of the envelope, so I’m not sure if this is a *design feature* or faulty drafting.

Since I was working with a stable knit fabric, I omitted the zipper in the back that the patterned called for, and cut the back on the fold. Consequently, the back is the only area where all of the polka dots line up. I didn’t even think about attempting to pattern match until everything was cut out. Whoops!

This shirt is quite versatile. It can be dressed up for work (think with a pencil skirt) or down with white jeans. I think it is super classic in this navy and white polka-dotted print. Before I wear it again, I will tack down the facing around the arms and neckline, as they flip out like crazy. Overall, though, this was a quick project, and I’m calling it a success!